Pardon me for resurrecting this thread, but perhaps someone will be searching for the same advice. I am very happy with the sound of my Sennheiser CX300 earphones. Some people might not like the asymmetrical cable, so consider this feature before you buy. If you are in the US, you should be able to get the CX300 earphones for around $20. Be sure to buy only from a trusted dealer. There are lots of fake CX300s being sold, especially on eBay.

Spend $40 on the Nuforce NE-6's and don't get the cx300's. the NE-6's will be a lot better. The cx300's aren't bad but have really bloated bass and they are also bright. They also sound kind of funny. There is a word for that but I forget it. The Nuforces also have better isolation.

Spend $40 on the nuforce NE-6's and don't get the cx300's. the NE-6's will be a lot better. The cx300's aren't bad but have really bloated bass and they are also bright. They also sound kind of funny. There is a word for that but I forget it.

Muddy? the bass on them is overwhelming, although still good iems for £20 or so.